India Golden Triangle Cycle Challenge

Bike

Ride through Rajasthan, a region rich in desert landscapes, fantastic wildlife, exquisite forts, and bustling cities. The route begins in Agra, home to the world famous Taj Mahal. From here, the journey offers you a close up view of all Rajasthan has to offer, before ending in the pink city of Jaipur.

Everything you need to know

Level of Difficulty

Typical day

Safety

Responsible Tourism

Extension

Flights

Visa

Insurance

Vaccinations & Medication

Climate & Terrain

Training

Training weekends

Luggage allowance and valuables

Leadership

Group Size

Clothing and equipment

Bikes

Accommodation

Food & Drink

Money

Phone and WiFi

Emergencies

Level of Difficulty

This challenge has been graded ‘Challenging’, This is the perfect challenge for participants who are of an adventurous spirit and an open mind, but perhaps haven’t taken on a strenuous challenge event before and are hoping to push themselves out of their comfort zone. You can tell your supporters that on Ride India, you will be:

Cycling between 7-9 hours per day

Covering an overall distance of 450 kilometres.

Hitting the tarmac in extremely hot conditions

Staying in basic hotels

Level of Difficulty

This challenge has been graded ‘Challenging’, This is the perfect challenge for participants who are of an adventurous spirit and an open mind, but perhaps haven’t taken on a strenuous challenge event before and are hoping to push themselves out of their comfort zone. You can tell your supporters that on Ride India, you will be:

Cycling between 7-9 hours per day

Covering an overall distance of 450 kilometres.

Hitting the tarmac in extremely hot conditions

Staying in basic hotels

Typical day

You will wake early (around sunrise) in time for a hearty breakfast. Cycling days will last between 4-8 hours, including breaks and snacks. You will have a leisurely break for lunch around noon – packed or cooked lunch will be provided. You will arrive at your accommodation before sunset. Supper will be prepared at around 7pm and then you can relax as the stars come out.

Typical day

You will wake early (around sunrise) in time for a hearty breakfast. Cycling days will last between 4-8 hours, including breaks and snacks. You will have a leisurely break for lunch around noon – packed or cooked lunch will be provided. You will arrive at your accommodation before sunset. Supper will be prepared at around 7pm and then you can relax as the stars come out.

Safety

Charity Challenge considers the safety of all of its participants and staff to be a top priority, and as such we have set up an advanced and thorough safety management system. In a nutshell, Our Challenge Safe brand formalises our ethos when it comes to safety, and brings together the procedures and risk management strategies that we use to audit all aspects of our challenges, from vehicles to accommodation to the activity itself. Your welfare is paramount!

In terms of your challenge, there are a couple of important points that you should be aware of:

Riding in the heat of India is a major challenge in itself, so make sure you are well hydrated throughout.

The tarmac roads are prone to potholes and can be fairly bumpy in parts.

This trip involves some dirt tracks with lots of loose stones and rocks.

Smoke alarms are not compulsory in India, and as such very few accommodation will include them. Your tour leader will explain the emergency procedures.

You will be riding on the right-hand side of the road and occasionally through busy areas. Make sure that you are paying attention at all times.

The brakes on the bikes may be on the opposite side to what you are used to in the UK. Take the first morning slow and steady until you get used to this.

Safety

Charity Challenge considers the safety of all of its participants and staff to be a top priority, and as such we have set up an advanced and thorough safety management system. In a nutshell, Our Challenge Safe brand formalises our ethos when it comes to safety, and brings together the procedures and risk management strategies that we use to audit all aspects of our challenges, from vehicles to accommodation to the activity itself. Your welfare is paramount!

In terms of your challenge, there are a couple of important points that you should be aware of:

Riding in the heat of India is a major challenge in itself, so make sure you are well hydrated throughout.

The tarmac roads are prone to potholes and can be fairly bumpy in parts.

This trip involves some dirt tracks with lots of loose stones and rocks.

Smoke alarms are not compulsory in India, and as such very few accommodation will include them. Your tour leader will explain the emergency procedures.

You will be riding on the right-hand side of the road and occasionally through busy areas. Make sure that you are paying attention at all times.

The brakes on the bikes may be on the opposite side to what you are used to in the UK. Take the first morning slow and steady until you get used to this.

Responsible Tourism

At Charity Challenge we are committed to sustainable and responsible tourism, and work closely with bodies such as the International Porter Protection Group and Climate Care to ensure that our challenges benefit the local environments and communities in which they take place. We ensure that all rubbish is disposed of responsibly, and following local guidelines on cultural and environmental protection and respect, we aim to limit our impact on the natural environment. In addition to taking these practical steps to ensure that our challenges are sustainable, we also make a contribution each year to a number of local community projects, so as to give something back directly to the communities that we visit. Since 2000 we have donated almost £200,000 to such projects, supporting a range of initiatives, including schooling for children in Africa, shelter for street children in Brazil, and Orang-utan conservation in Indonesia. We recommend that any gifts brought over for children are given to the UK challenge leader and distributed where needed by them and our local Ground Agent. If you wish to do more, you should consider buying drinks, postcards and souvenirs from the local vendors. For many, it is their sole source of income. For more information, please visit our Responsible Tourism pages, where you will be able to view a list of the projects that we currently support.

Responsible Tourism

At Charity Challenge we are committed to sustainable and responsible tourism, and work closely with bodies such as the International Porter Protection Group and Climate Care to ensure that our challenges benefit the local environments and communities in which they take place. We ensure that all rubbish is disposed of responsibly, and following local guidelines on cultural and environmental protection and respect, we aim to limit our impact on the natural environment. In addition to taking these practical steps to ensure that our challenges are sustainable, we also make a contribution each year to a number of local community projects, so as to give something back directly to the communities that we visit. Since 2000 we have donated almost £200,000 to such projects, supporting a range of initiatives, including schooling for children in Africa, shelter for street children in Brazil, and Orang-utan conservation in Indonesia. We recommend that any gifts brought over for children are given to the UK challenge leader and distributed where needed by them and our local Ground Agent. If you wish to do more, you should consider buying drinks, postcards and souvenirs from the local vendors. For many, it is their sole source of income. For more information, please visit our Responsible Tourism pages, where you will be able to view a list of the projects that we currently support.

Extension

Jaipur City Extension

Jaipur, often referred to as ‘the Pink City’, is the vibrant capital of Rajasthan. This buzzing metropolis is an enthralling mix of old and new; a place where vegetable laden camel carts and traditionally dressed locals meet with buzzing auto rickshaws and swarms of motorbikes. The splendours of Jaipur’s majestic past offer a sense of calm amongst the chaos, reminding visitors of a different pace and another world.

Day 10: Amber Fort, Polo Bar and Raj Mandir Cinema
This morning, you will head north of Jaipur to Amber, the ancient capital to visit the Amber fort. Built in 1592, this stunning example of Rajput architecture is situated on the hillside offering superb views of the lake below. After this, it will be time for refreshments at the Polo Bar in the opulent Rambagh Palace. Finally, you will head to one of the most luxurious and famous cinemas in India, the Raj Mandir Cinema, where the audience themselves are worth watching. The evening will finish with a Rajastani banquet.

Day 11: The Observatory, City Palace, Hawa Mahal and Johri Bazaar
Today begins with a visit to one of Jaipur’s main attractions – the Mahara Jai Singh II Observatory. At first glance it appears to be a random assortment of sculptures. However, as you investigate further you realise the specific purpose each one has; from measuring the positions of stars to calculating eclipses. Next you head to the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds). Originally built to enable the ladies of the Royal household to watch the processions, it now offers stunning views over the city. The day continues at the City Palace, a treasure trove of interesting artefacts including the largest silver objects in the world. Finally, you will have some time to stock up on local handicrafts, jewellery and sweets at the Johri Bazaar to ensure that you arrive home laden with souvenirs and gifts to remember your trip by.

Day 12: Return to UK
This morning you will transfer to Jaipur airport for your flight to Delhi. Here you will connect to your flight to the UK, arriving the same day.

Extension

Jaipur City Extension

Jaipur, often referred to as ‘the Pink City’, is the vibrant capital of Rajasthan. This buzzing metropolis is an enthralling mix of old and new; a place where vegetable laden camel carts and traditionally dressed locals meet with buzzing auto rickshaws and swarms of motorbikes. The splendours of Jaipur’s majestic past offer a sense of calm amongst the chaos, reminding visitors of a different pace and another world.

Day 10: Amber Fort, Polo Bar and Raj Mandir Cinema
This morning, you will head north of Jaipur to Amber, the ancient capital to visit the Amber fort. Built in 1592, this stunning example of Rajput architecture is situated on the hillside offering superb views of the lake below. After this, it will be time for refreshments at the Polo Bar in the opulent Rambagh Palace. Finally, you will head to one of the most luxurious and famous cinemas in India, the Raj Mandir Cinema, where the audience themselves are worth watching. The evening will finish with a Rajastani banquet.

Day 11: The Observatory, City Palace, Hawa Mahal and Johri Bazaar
Today begins with a visit to one of Jaipur’s main attractions – the Mahara Jai Singh II Observatory. At first glance it appears to be a random assortment of sculptures. However, as you investigate further you realise the specific purpose each one has; from measuring the positions of stars to calculating eclipses. Next you head to the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds). Originally built to enable the ladies of the Royal household to watch the processions, it now offers stunning views over the city. The day continues at the City Palace, a treasure trove of interesting artefacts including the largest silver objects in the world. Finally, you will have some time to stock up on local handicrafts, jewellery and sweets at the Johri Bazaar to ensure that you arrive home laden with souvenirs and gifts to remember your trip by.

Day 12: Return to UK
This morning you will transfer to Jaipur airport for your flight to Delhi. Here you will connect to your flight to the UK, arriving the same day.

Flights

You will be flying from London Heathrow to Delhi, India. Your flight info can be found in your Account Area under 'Flights'. Your flight tickets will be emailed to you before your departure. If you choose to book your own flights you must confirm with the Charity Challenge office before paying otherwise, you may be liable for your included group flights (please contact flights@charitychallenge.com for further assistance).

Please note: Timings of the group flights are subject to change. Please be aware of this when booking additional services, such as internal transfers to the departure airport.

Flights

You will be flying from London Heathrow to Delhi, India. Your flight info can be found in your Account Area under 'Flights'. Your flight tickets will be emailed to you before your departure. If you choose to book your own flights you must confirm with the Charity Challenge office before paying otherwise, you may be liable for your included group flights (please contact flights@charitychallenge.com for further assistance).

Please note: Timings of the group flights are subject to change. Please be aware of this when booking additional services, such as internal transfers to the departure airport.

Visa

If your expedition ventures to a country which requires a visa, this information will be uploaded to your online account area 3 months prior to departure. The visa information is per the FCO website where a link will be provided to the visa office for that country.
All foreign nationals require a visa to enter India. Please note that British Citizens are now eligible to get an online visa before arrival to India.

Important note: British passport holders of Pakistani origin may have difficulty in obtaining a visa for India. If the visa is granted it will certainly take much longer than for other UK nationals, and there is a chance that you may not receive it in time to depart on your challenge. Charity Challenge's cancellation terms will apply in all circumstances.

Visa

If your expedition ventures to a country which requires a visa, this information will be uploaded to your online account area 3 months prior to departure. The visa information is per the FCO website where a link will be provided to the visa office for that country.
All foreign nationals require a visa to enter India. Please note that British Citizens are now eligible to get an online visa before arrival to India.

Important note: British passport holders of Pakistani origin may have difficulty in obtaining a visa for India. If the visa is granted it will certainly take much longer than for other UK nationals, and there is a chance that you may not receive it in time to depart on your challenge. Charity Challenge's cancellation terms will apply in all circumstances.

Insurance

It is a condition of travelling with Charity Challenge that you have a suitable travel insurance policy which covers you for your entire challenge. We have a special policy which covers among other things, medical (emergency, evacuation and repatriation) arrangements, cancellation and curtailment of the challenge, and more specifically for the adventurous activities undertaken on this challenge.

If you have your own travel insurance policy, you must ensure that it provides at least the same level of cover as our recommended policy, including protecting the charity in the event of your cancellation 56 days or less prior to departure. If you choose not to purchase our recommended policy when you book we will send you a disclaimer which you must complete and return to Charity Challenge prior to travel.

Insurance

It is a condition of travelling with Charity Challenge that you have a suitable travel insurance policy which covers you for your entire challenge. We have a special policy which covers among other things, medical (emergency, evacuation and repatriation) arrangements, cancellation and curtailment of the challenge, and more specifically for the adventurous activities undertaken on this challenge.

If you have your own travel insurance policy, you must ensure that it provides at least the same level of cover as our recommended policy, including protecting the charity in the event of your cancellation 56 days or less prior to departure. If you choose not to purchase our recommended policy when you book we will send you a disclaimer which you must complete and return to Charity Challenge prior to travel.

Vaccinations & Medication

The Charity Challenge team are not medical experts and we would encourage you to visit your doctor or travel nurse to discuss vaccination requirements. Your doctor may ask questions about the specific locations that you are visiting, and as such it may be useful to take a copy of your itinerary with you.

Medication

Carry medicines (including those bought over the counter) in their correctly labelled original packaging, as issued by the pharmacist. These should be carried in your hand luggage.

Consider packing a spare supply of medication in the hold luggage in case of loss of hand luggage

A letter from the prescriber detailing the medicines with the generic names for the medications can be helpful for border control checks, and in case medicines have to be replaced or medical help is required

Carry a note from the prescribing physician on letterhead stationery for controlled substances and injection medications

Take out an appropriate level of travel health insurance including repatriation and specific cover for any pre-existing illnesses

If you have an allergy that requires an epi-pen, ensure that you carry 2 epi-pens during the trip.

Vaccinations & Medication

The Charity Challenge team are not medical experts and we would encourage you to visit your doctor or travel nurse to discuss vaccination requirements. Your doctor may ask questions about the specific locations that you are visiting, and as such it may be useful to take a copy of your itinerary with you.

Medication

Carry medicines (including those bought over the counter) in their correctly labelled original packaging, as issued by the pharmacist. These should be carried in your hand luggage.

Consider packing a spare supply of medication in the hold luggage in case of loss of hand luggage

A letter from the prescriber detailing the medicines with the generic names for the medications can be helpful for border control checks, and in case medicines have to be replaced or medical help is required

Carry a note from the prescribing physician on letterhead stationery for controlled substances and injection medications

Take out an appropriate level of travel health insurance including repatriation and specific cover for any pre-existing illnesses

If you have an allergy that requires an epi-pen, ensure that you carry 2 epi-pens during the trip.

Climate & Terrain

Climate

The post-monsoon period in Rajasthan runs from Oct to Dec, when temperatures can average from the mid to high 30s, down to around 18C. During the winter season (from January to March), there is a marked variation in minimum and maximum temperatures, and regional variations right across the state. January is the coldest month, when temperatures can drop down to 0C in some places. There is slight precipitation in the north and north-eastern regions of the state, and light winds, predominantly from the north and north-east. At this time of year the relative humidity ranges from 50-60% in the morning to 25-35% in the afternoon.

Terrain

The terrain is mainly flat, with a few short uphill sections. Many roads are in poor condition with potholes and gravel. On some days you will be cycling on main roads and you should listen to your leader's safety briefings carefully.

Climate & Terrain

Climate

The post-monsoon period in Rajasthan runs from Oct to Dec, when temperatures can average from the mid to high 30s, down to around 18C. During the winter season (from January to March), there is a marked variation in minimum and maximum temperatures, and regional variations right across the state. January is the coldest month, when temperatures can drop down to 0C in some places. There is slight precipitation in the north and north-eastern regions of the state, and light winds, predominantly from the north and north-east. At this time of year the relative humidity ranges from 50-60% in the morning to 25-35% in the afternoon.

Terrain

The terrain is mainly flat, with a few short uphill sections. Many roads are in poor condition with potholes and gravel. On some days you will be cycling on main roads and you should listen to your leader's safety briefings carefully.

Training

A good level of fitness is definitely required. Anyone who leads an active and healthy lifestyle and cycles on a regular basis, with training, should find this a manageable challenge. As always, however, the more you exercise before the challenge, the more you will get out of it. To train, cycle for a full day at a time or even a whole weekend in order to build up your stamina. Don’t forget that the climate is different to the UK, and that you will be exercising constantly for a number of days in the heat and sunshine. You will only be expected to carry water and any essentials that you would carry on a day ride – our support team will take care of the rest of your luggage. Also see the Fitness Training Advice notes.

Training

A good level of fitness is definitely required. Anyone who leads an active and healthy lifestyle and cycles on a regular basis, with training, should find this a manageable challenge. As always, however, the more you exercise before the challenge, the more you will get out of it. To train, cycle for a full day at a time or even a whole weekend in order to build up your stamina. Don’t forget that the climate is different to the UK, and that you will be exercising constantly for a number of days in the heat and sunshine. You will only be expected to carry water and any essentials that you would carry on a day ride – our support team will take care of the rest of your luggage. Also see the Fitness Training Advice notes.

Training weekends

We offer superb training weekends across various locations in the UK, from Saturday morning to Sunday afternoon. These training weekends help you become physically prepared for the challenge. Our experienced instructors and leaders will also talk you through your clothing and equipment, health and wellbeing, trekking skills and teamwork. The weekends are great ways for you to get out into the mountains of the UK, while also meeting other Charity Challengers and sharing your experiences. To read more about our training weekends, including dates and prices, check out the information in your online account area or here.

Training weekends

We offer superb training weekends across various locations in the UK, from Saturday morning to Sunday afternoon. These training weekends help you become physically prepared for the challenge. Our experienced instructors and leaders will also talk you through your clothing and equipment, health and wellbeing, trekking skills and teamwork. The weekends are great ways for you to get out into the mountains of the UK, while also meeting other Charity Challengers and sharing your experiences. To read more about our training weekends, including dates and prices, check out the information in your online account area or here.

Luggage allowance and valuables

The luggage allowance will depend on the airline being used for your challenge, but in general it will be one piece of checked baggage at approximately 20kg.

Each cycling day, your personal kit will be transported to the next stop by a support vehicle. You will carry a daypack/bumbag for your daily needs such as sun cream, lunch, water, camera and lightweight waterproofs.

We will do everything to provide adequate security for your possessions. The general rule is that if you don’t need it, don’t bring it. This includes jewellery, necklaces, rings and even watches. Carry your passport with you and make sure you have a photocopy of your documents (travel insurance, passport, visa etc.) in case they get lost or damaged.

We recommend carrying 1 day of cycling clothes in your hand luggage. In the unlikely event that your hold bag should go missing, you will be able to begin the challenge until you are reunited with your luggage.

Luggage allowance and valuables

The luggage allowance will depend on the airline being used for your challenge, but in general it will be one piece of checked baggage at approximately 20kg.

Each cycling day, your personal kit will be transported to the next stop by a support vehicle. You will carry a daypack/bumbag for your daily needs such as sun cream, lunch, water, camera and lightweight waterproofs.

We will do everything to provide adequate security for your possessions. The general rule is that if you don’t need it, don’t bring it. This includes jewellery, necklaces, rings and even watches. Carry your passport with you and make sure you have a photocopy of your documents (travel insurance, passport, visa etc.) in case they get lost or damaged.

We recommend carrying 1 day of cycling clothes in your hand luggage. In the unlikely event that your hold bag should go missing, you will be able to begin the challenge until you are reunited with your luggage.

Leadership

There will be an English-speaking challenge leader who will be responsible for the logistics and co-ordination of your challenge. There will also be numerous local support guides and staff to assist them. The challenge leader will be ultimately responsible for the running of the itinerary and the safety of your group.

Leadership

There will be an English-speaking challenge leader who will be responsible for the logistics and co-ordination of your challenge. There will also be numerous local support guides and staff to assist them. The challenge leader will be ultimately responsible for the running of the itinerary and the safety of your group.

Group Size

Each group is intended to be 15 people minimum in order to run and a maximum of approx. 30 people. We will be able to run this challenge for 10 to 14 people by charging a small group supplement of £75 which will be added to your final balance invoice (self funders) or charged to your charity (minimum sponsorship or flexi).

Group Size

Each group is intended to be 15 people minimum in order to run and a maximum of approx. 30 people. We will be able to run this challenge for 10 to 14 people by charging a small group supplement of £75 which will be added to your final balance invoice (self funders) or charged to your charity (minimum sponsorship or flexi).

Clothing and equipment

Good quality, durable kit could mean the difference between a fantastic challenge experience and an uncomfortable one. For your cycle challenge, padded cycling shorts and comfortable footwear are essential, and helmets are compulsory throughout. Training with your cycling shorts is definitely advised! You can bring equipment like clip-in pedals or a gel seat, if desired, in order to adapt your bike in country, and we would also recommend technical/wicking t-shirts rather than cotton shirts. A full kit list for this challenge can be found here, and once you book you will have access to kit discounts with our partners The Outdoor Shop, Outdoorhire and Cotswold Outdoor.

Clothing and equipment

Good quality, durable kit could mean the difference between a fantastic challenge experience and an uncomfortable one. For your cycle challenge, padded cycling shorts and comfortable footwear are essential, and helmets are compulsory throughout. Training with your cycling shorts is definitely advised! You can bring equipment like clip-in pedals or a gel seat, if desired, in order to adapt your bike in country, and we would also recommend technical/wicking t-shirts rather than cotton shirts. A full kit list for this challenge can be found here, and once you book you will have access to kit discounts with our partners The Outdoor Shop, Outdoorhire and Cotswold Outdoor.

Bikes

The bikes are 18-gear Trek, Target or Firefox hybrid bikes. They are some of the best bikes available in India; however, they probably do not compare to your bike at home. We add removable bar-ends to the bikes. We also add bells and water bottle holders. Please bring your own toe-clips and pedals if you prefer and we can add them. We take plenty of spares and our mechanics are on hand at all times for repairs or adjustments. The maximum frame size available in India is 19-inch.

Bikes

The bikes are 18-gear Trek, Target or Firefox hybrid bikes. They are some of the best bikes available in India; however, they probably do not compare to your bike at home. We add removable bar-ends to the bikes. We also add bells and water bottle holders. Please bring your own toe-clips and pedals if you prefer and we can add them. We take plenty of spares and our mechanics are on hand at all times for repairs or adjustments. The maximum frame size available in India is 19-inch.

Accommodation

Accommodation

During the challenge sector you will be staying mainly in hotels and heritage accommodation. There is one night where you will be staying in a luxury tented camp. If you are travelling with a friend or partner who you wish to share with please let Charity Challenge know in advance.

Single rooms may be available on request and are subject to a single room supplement. Please email Charity Challenge for further information.

Toilets

You will be staying in hotels, guesthouses, or palaces of the Maharaja, with basic but good toilet facilities. Your night at the luxury tented camp will have en suite facilities.

Accommodation

Accommodation

During the challenge sector you will be staying mainly in hotels and heritage accommodation. There is one night where you will be staying in a luxury tented camp. If you are travelling with a friend or partner who you wish to share with please let Charity Challenge know in advance.

Single rooms may be available on request and are subject to a single room supplement. Please email Charity Challenge for further information.

Toilets

You will be staying in hotels, guesthouses, or palaces of the Maharaja, with basic but good toilet facilities. Your night at the luxury tented camp will have en suite facilities.

Food & Drink

You will be served a variety of European and Indian food. All meals are healthy, nourishing and plentiful. Please let Charity Challenge know prior to departure if you have any specific dietary requirements or allergies.

Food & Drink

You will be served a variety of European and Indian food. All meals are healthy, nourishing and plentiful. Please let Charity Challenge know prior to departure if you have any specific dietary requirements or allergies.

Money

Currency

The currency is the Rupee, abbreviated as Rs. This is a 'closed currency', which means that you cannot import or export Rupees. For up to date currency exchange, go to: http://www.xe.com/.

Credit Cards

A growing number of hotels, restaurants and shops in the major cities are beginning to accept credit cards. Credit cards are not the most convenient form of payment or method for withdrawing cash. However, we recommend having a credit card with you in case of emergencies.

ATMs

Please note that ATMs are not always available and that, when they are they, do not always work. It is best to ensure that you have enough cash with you prior to starting the challenge.

How much to bring

You will not need large amounts of money during this challenge. You will only need money for tips, additional food & drink, gifts & souvenirs and for any additional activities. On average, we recommend around £200 in cash, plus a credit card for emergencies. Keep in mind that you will not be able to buy Rupees before entering India, and so you are advised to take a sufficient amount of cash that you can change at the airport or in Delhi.

Tipping: Tipping is personal and at your sole discretion. We recommend approx. US$10 per person per challenge-day. This should be given to the challenge leader who will distribute it among the support team, including guides, assistant guides, cooks and porters.

Money

Currency

The currency is the Rupee, abbreviated as Rs. This is a 'closed currency', which means that you cannot import or export Rupees. For up to date currency exchange, go to: http://www.xe.com/.

Credit Cards

A growing number of hotels, restaurants and shops in the major cities are beginning to accept credit cards. Credit cards are not the most convenient form of payment or method for withdrawing cash. However, we recommend having a credit card with you in case of emergencies.

ATMs

Please note that ATMs are not always available and that, when they are they, do not always work. It is best to ensure that you have enough cash with you prior to starting the challenge.

How much to bring

You will not need large amounts of money during this challenge. You will only need money for tips, additional food & drink, gifts & souvenirs and for any additional activities. On average, we recommend around £200 in cash, plus a credit card for emergencies. Keep in mind that you will not be able to buy Rupees before entering India, and so you are advised to take a sufficient amount of cash that you can change at the airport or in Delhi.

Tipping: Tipping is personal and at your sole discretion. We recommend approx. US$10 per person per challenge-day. This should be given to the challenge leader who will distribute it among the support team, including guides, assistant guides, cooks and porters.

Phone and WiFi

During the Rajasthan cycle, phone and WIFI connection will be available for most of challenge.

Phone and WiFi

During the Rajasthan cycle, phone and WIFI connection will be available for most of challenge.

Emergencies

The event is not run as a race and there is always a large discrepancy in people’s cycling abilities. This is allowed for. There will be a staff member at the back of the group at all times to ensure that you are not left behind and can take things at your own pace. In the event of an emergency, all guides and leaders are maintaining contact via radio, and the backup vehicle will not be far away. If somebody is unable to cycle at all, then the guides will arrange evacuation to a vehicle.

Emergencies

The event is not run as a race and there is always a large discrepancy in people’s cycling abilities. This is allowed for. There will be a staff member at the back of the group at all times to ensure that you are not left behind and can take things at your own pace. In the event of an emergency, all guides and leaders are maintaining contact via radio, and the backup vehicle will not be far away. If somebody is unable to cycle at all, then the guides will arrange evacuation to a vehicle.

We hold an Air Travel Organiser's Licence granted by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 6546. Many of the flight-inclusive challenges on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. But ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services listed on this website. This ATOL protection only covers challenges that include flights booked by Charity Challenge and that originate in the UK. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking. If you do not receive an ATOL Certificate then the booking will not be ATOL protected. If you do receive an ATOL Certificate but all the parts of your trip are not listed on it, those parts will not be ATOL protected. Please see our booking conditions for information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLcertificate